These four clients arrive in the emergency department after a motor vehicle crash. In which order should they be assessed?
A)A 72-year-old with palpitations and chest pain
B)A 45-year-old complaining of 6/10 abdominal pain
C)A 22-year-old with multiple fractures of the face and jaw
D)A 30-year-old with a misaligned right leg with intact pulses

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The highest priority is to assess the 22-year-old client for airway obstruction, which is the most life-threatening injury. The 72-year-old client may have chest pain from cardiac ischemia and should be assessed and have diagnostic testing for this pain. The 45-year-old client may have abdominal trauma or bleeding and should be seen next to assess circulatory status. The 30-year-old appears to have a possible fracture of the right leg and should be seen soon, but this client has the least life-threatening injury.

These Four Clients Arrive in the Emergency Department After a Motor